Appointing a special envoy a chance for ‘moral suasion’ to China, experts say

By Jolson Lim & Neil MossFeb. 4, 2019

There is speculation in political circles that the Liberal government may appoint a special envoy to China.

Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland addressing reporters in the new House foyer on Jan. 29. During the scrum, she did not rule out appointing a special envoy when asked about it. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Dispatching a special envoy to Beijing amid the Huawei dispute could contain tensions between Canada and China and maybe lead to some form of lenience for the two Canadians currently detained, experts say, although one former diplomat warns such a move could sow more confusion about Canada’s messaging in the icy affair.

Gerald Butts has removed himself from the daily political grind of strategizing how to keep the Liberals in power. But observers say it's unlikely he will be consigned to watch the campaign unfold from the sidelines.

SNC-Lavalin risks a takeover if it's convicted. But aside from likely outrage in Quebec, Ottawa can find other builders for its infrastructure plans if the company is banned from bidding on federal contracts, experts say

The Quebec company had extensive access to government ministers and top staffers, and was the only organization registered to lobby for allowing deferred prosecution agreements for white collar crimes.